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Vinton County Ohio Small Town Christmas

Experience Small Town Christmas in Vinton County

 As we count down the days till Christmas, it is easy to get caught up in all the rush. Holiday advertisements tell us what to put under the tree. Work parties and social obligations start filling up the calendar, and there is baking to do, cards to mail, and decorations to put up. Whew, it’s exhausting just thinking about it all. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

Sometimes the best times are the ones with little schedule, a wandering spirit, and the company of friends or family. One tradition my family enjoys this time of year is when we spend quality time with each other, away from our hectic lives. We get in the car and head out to find an unbeaten path where life is a bit slower. The adventure leads us to discover mom-and-pop shops, local diners, and friendly small towns lit up in their holiday splendor. We get to experience a slower, more old fashion Christmas season.

Vinton County is everything an old-fashioned Christmas is all about.

In the beautiful Hocking Hills region of Ohio, Vinton County offers scenic vistas in every direction. But it’s more than the views that keep visitors returning to this charming area, especially at the most wonderful time of the year.

The season officially gets underway on Saturday, November 26th, as Hammond Hardware & Lumber in Hamden kicks things off with a hometown Christmas. From horse and buggy rides and hot cocoa to picking out a live Christmas tree, there is something for everyone. It is also an excellent opportunity to shop for those hard-to-please friends and family. Local crafters are on site with various items, along with Hammond’s gift shop that offers handmade gifts and unique items. A visit to the hardware is a step back in time as you return to the days of general stores and personal service. No visit would be complete without a stop by the candy department for those sweet treats from your childhood. Santa Nick Rose makes a special appearance on December 8th, 4-7 pm, to welcome the children and pose for photos to take home.

The village of McArthur welcomes the season by hosting its annual Christmas in Downtown event on December 3rd. Businesses, churches, and community organizations come together to rejoice in the season. Music, food, shopping, and a parade, are some ‌highlights of a day filled with fun and celebration. Stores throughout McArthur embrace the season with holiday decor and special incentives. Stop by The Mill House Flower and Gifts for holiday floral arrangements, seasonal decorations, and handmade gifts. Stop by Spring Street Sports to try their premium Smoke-N-Beans coffee while browsing Vinton County-themed apparel and BBQ supplies.

It wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit to The Enchanted Christmas Shop in rural Vinton County! This shop has everything to decorate for Christmas. The owner, Karen Bledsoe, takes great pride in her items and works hard in the off-season shopping out of state to ensure she has unique items you won’t find elsewhere in Ohio. The Enchanted Christmas Shop even boasts an entire room dedicated to snowmen.

After all the Christmas fun, it is time to sit and relax, and where better than just a few minutes south of Hocking Hills State Park. Le Petit Chevalier Vineyards and Farm Winery is the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventures. Enjoy a mulled wine or the glühwein, a warmed German spiced wine.

Both are seasonal favorites, perfect for enjoying the chilly winter weather and the festive atmosphere. The winery is home to an estate vineyard, and they do all bottling on-premise.

They offer wine varieties dating back to the 1700s and more recent selections. Le Petit Chevalier also offers an Airbnb rental that has both sunset and sunrise views

The rolling hills and small towns offer much more than one day affords. The area is home to many charming cabins or Airbnbs nestled in the foothills and forests that provide the perfect respite during the frantic Christmas season.

However, it isn’t just for the holidays. Cabins, houses, and even treehouses offer many amenities, including cozy fireplaces, hot tubs, scenic views, and more throughout the year.

December 25th may be wrapped in ribbons, bows, and the most beautiful paper, but all that doesn’t last. A favorite Christmas story, The Grinch, by Dr. Seuss, reminds us that while we plan elaborate feasts, adorn our trees with prized trinkets, and dress in our finest attire, this isn’t really what Christmas is all about.

This special time of the year is about love, friendship, making memories, and the gift of ourselves we give one another.

Merry Christmas!

Vinton County Ohio Small Town Christmas

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